Deduno, 30, is competing for the fifth spot in the rotation after posting a 3.83 ERA in 18 starts with the Twins last season. He is considered a frontrunner for the fifth spot along with right-hander Vance Worley and left-hander Scott Diamond. All three pitchers are out of Minor League options.

Deduno said he was excited to compete for that spot this spring, adding that the key would be replicating his success from last season.

"I just have to keep working hard and keep doing what I was doing," Deduno said.